K81: Cholecystitis

K81 refers to Cholecystitis, a group of disorders affecting the gallbladder, biliary tract, and pancreas. These include gallstones, inflammation, bile duct obstructions, pancreatitis, and complications due to systemic diseases. These conditions often present with abdominal pain and may require urgent medical or surgical care.

Symptoms

• Right upper abdominal pain – Common in gallbladder disease (K80–K82)
• Nausea and vomiting – Present in cholecystitis (K81) and pancreatitis (K85)
• Fever and chills – Indicate possible infection
• Jaundice – Suggests bile duct obstruction or involvement (K83, K87)
• Back pain and tenderness – Associated with acute pancreatitis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Cholecystitis involves abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, MRCP, liver function tests, pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase), and sometimes ERCP. These help identify inflammation, obstruction, or underlying causes requiring intervention.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code K81 is used by gastroenterologists, hepatobiliary surgeons, ER physicians, and internists. It supports billing for imaging, hospital admission, endoscopic procedures, or surgical interventions like cholecystectomy or ERCP.

Related Codes

• K80 – Cholelithiasis
• K82 – Other diseases of gallbladder
• K83 – Other diseases of biliary tract
• K85 – Acute pancreatitis
• K86 – Other diseases of pancreas
• K87 – Disorders of gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas in diseases classified elsewhere

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code K81?
A: It refers to Cholecystitis, which affects the biliary system or pancreas, causing digestive issues, inflammation, or obstruction.

Q2: What is the difference between K80 and K81?
A: K80 refers to gallstones, while K81 is used when inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) is present, with or without stones.

Q3: What conditions are included under K82 and K83?
A: K82 includes gallbladder polyps or perforation; K83 covers cholangitis, bile duct stricture, or leaks.

Q4: What does K87 represent?
A: K87 codes for biliary or pancreatic conditions arising due to systemic diseases like cancer, infections, or trauma.

Q5: Who manages these conditions?
A: Gastroenterologists, hepatobiliary surgeons, interventional radiologists, and emergency physicians manage these disorders.

Conclusion

ICD10 code K81 helps guide clinical care and documentation for Cholecystitis, ensuring proper diagnosis, procedural planning, and effective management of biliary and pancreatic diseases.